Rome 13-Day Trip Itinerary
Rome - 13 Days Itinerary
Embark on a 13-day moderate-budget cultural adventure, exploring the historical depths of Rome, Naples, and Capri before venturing to the vibrant streets of Paris and the majestic landscapes of Switzerland. This immersive journey emphasizes walkable exploration of ancient ruins, grand castles, and breathtaking scenic views, utilizing hostels and efficient train/bus travel for an authentic and engaging experience.
Arrival in Rome & First Impressions
Arrive at Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO)
Upon arrival, clear customs and immigration.
Take the Leonardo Express train from FCO to Termini Station, the main railway hub in Rome. Journey takes approximately 32 minutes.
Leonardo Express train offers direct, fast service to Termini. Tickets can be purchased at the airport.
Check into Hostel
Head to your pre-booked hostel, ideally located near Termini Station or within easy walking distance/metro access to major sights.
Settle in and freshen up.
Book your hostel in advance for better rates and availability.
Explore Piazza della Repubblica & Dinner
Take a leisurely walk to Piazza della Repubblica, admire the Fountain of the Naiads, and see the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri.
Enjoy a traditional Roman dinner at a local trattoria.
Easily walkable from Termini area. Use Google Maps for navigation.
Ancient Rome Exploration
Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill
Immerse yourself in ancient Roman history.
Start with the iconic Colosseum, then explore the sprawling ruins of the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, once home to emperors.
Book a skip-the-line ticket online in advance, as queues can be very long. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water.
Lunch near Ancient Rome
Grab a quick, casual lunch at a local eatery near the Colosseum, or find a charming spot in the Monti neighborhood.
Walkable from the Colosseum/Roman Forum area.
Capitoline Museums
Continue your historical journey at the Capitoline Museums, located on Capitoline Hill.
Explore impressive collections of ancient Roman art and artifacts.
Walkable from the Roman Forum. The museums are located on Piazza del Campidoglio, designed by Michelangelo.
Sunset View from Gianicolo Hill
Head to Gianicolo Hill (Janiculum Hill) for panoramic sunset views over the city of Rome.
It's a beautiful spot for photos.
Take a bus (e.g., H or 870) from central Rome towards Trastevere, then a short walk up the hill. Alternatively, it’s a pleasant walk from Trastevere.
Dinner in Trastevere
Enjoy dinner in the charming, bohemian Trastevere neighborhood, known for its narrow cobblestone streets, lively atmosphere, and traditional Roman restaurants.
Walkable from Gianicolo Hill, or use local buses if preferred.
Vatican City & Iconic Landmarks
Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
Explore the immense Vatican Museums, home to priceless art and historical artifacts.
Conclude your visit in the breathtaking Sistine Chapel, famous for Michelangelo's frescoes.
Book tickets online in advance to avoid long queues. Dress code: shoulders and knees must be covered.
St. Peter's Basilica & Square
After the museums, visit St.
Peter's Basilica, one of the largest churches in the world. Admire its grandeur and Michelangelo's Pietà. Explore St. Peter's Square.
Entrance to the Basilica is free, but there can be security queues. Dress code: shoulders and knees must be covered.
Lunch near Vatican
Find a traditional Roman pizzeria or café for a well-deserved lunch in the Borgo neighborhood near the Vatican.
Walkable from St. Peter's Basilica.
Castel Sant'Angelo
Walk along the Tiber River to Castel Sant'Angelo, a towering cylindrical building that has served as a mausoleum, fortress, and papal residence.
Enjoy views from the top.
Walkable from the Vatican area. Enjoy the Ponte Sant'Angelo bridge with its statues.
Spanish Steps & Via del Corso
Stroll towards the iconic Spanish Steps and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Explore the luxury shops along Via dei Condotti or the main shopping street, Via del Corso.
Accessible by Metro A (Spagna station) or a brisk walk from Castel Sant'Angelo along the river and then inland.
Dinner in Central Rome
Dine at a restaurant in the bustling heart of Rome, perhaps near Piazza Navona or the Pantheon area for an evening ambiance.
Walk or use local buses/metro.
Fountains, Squares & Hidden Gems
Trevi Fountain
Start your day by visiting the magnificent Trevi Fountain.
Toss a coin over your shoulder to ensure your return to Rome!
Visit early to avoid the largest crowds.
The Pantheon
Walk to the Pantheon, an ancient Roman temple, now a church, renowned for its perfectly preserved architecture and impressive dome.
Entry is free, but there might be a queue depending on the time of day.
Piazza Navona
Continue to Piazza Navona, a beautiful Baroque square featuring Bernini's Fountain of Four Rivers and impressive palaces.
Easily walkable from the Pantheon.
Lunch near Campo de' Fiori
Enjoy lunch near Campo de' Fiori, a vibrant market square (mornings) that transforms into a lively dining area in the afternoon and evening.
Walkable from Piazza Navona.
Galleria Borghese & Gardens
Visit the stunning Galleria Borghese, home to masterpieces by Bernini and Caravaggio.
Afterward, relax and stroll through the beautiful Borghese Gardens (Villa Borghese).
VERY IMPORTANT: Tickets MUST be booked online weeks in advance, as entry is strictly timed and limited.
Take a bus (e.g., 61, 89) from the central area to the museum entrance, or Metro A (Flaminio or Spagna) and then a walk through the gardens.
Aperitivo Experience
Enjoy an Italian Aperitivo, a pre-dinner drink with complimentary snacks.
A great way to unwind and experience local culture.
Use public transport (bus/metro) to reach your chosen neighborhood. Testaccio is known for its food scene.
Farewell Dinner in Rome
Savor your last Roman dinner at a restaurant specializing in local cuisine, perhaps trying Cacio e Pepe or Carbonara.
Travel to Naples & Initial Exploration
High-Speed Train to Naples
Take a high-speed train from Rome Termini to Naples Centrale station.
This is the fastest and most efficient way to travel between the cities.
Book train tickets in advance for better prices. Operators include Trenitalia (Frecciarossa) and Italo.
Walk or take a short metro ride to Termini from your hostel. In Naples, walk or use the metro from Centrale station.
Check into Naples Hostel
Arrive in Naples and make your way to your pre-booked hostel.
Settle in and drop off your luggage.
Look for hostels near the historic center or Montesanto/Dante metro stations for good access.
Authentic Neapolitan Pizza Lunch
Welcome to Naples, the birthplace of pizza!
Enjoy an authentic Neapolitan pizza for lunch. Choose from famous pizzerias in the historic center.
Walkable from many central hostels. Naples historic center is best explored on foot.
Explore Historic Center & Spaccanapoli
Take a walking tour through Naples' vibrant historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Wander along Spaccanapoli, the ancient main street that literally 'splits Naples'.
Beware of pickpockets in crowded areas.
Napoli Sotterranea (Underground Naples)
Discover the hidden world beneath the city with a guided tour of Underground Naples, exploring ancient aqueducts and tunnels.
Tours are available in English. Can be a bit claustrophobic for some.
Dinner & Passeggiata
Enjoy dinner at a traditional Neapolitan restaurant.
Afterward, join the locals for a 'passeggiata' (evening stroll) along Via Toledo or through the Spanish Quarters.
Travel to Naples & Historic Center
Train to Naples
Take a high-speed train from Rome Termini to Naples Centrale.
This is the fastest and most efficient way to travel between the two cities.
Book your train tickets in advance online for better prices. Frecciarossa (high-speed train) is recommended.
Hostel Check-in
Check into your hostel in Naples.
Look for options near the city center or a metro station for easy access to attractions.
Confirm check-in times with your chosen hostel. Most hostels offer luggage storage if you arrive early.
Explore Spaccanapoli
Walk through Spaccanapoli, the heart of Naples' historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Admire the narrow streets, historic churches, and lively atmosphere.
Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking. Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas.
Naples Cathedral
Visit the Duomo di San Gennaro (Naples Cathedral), home to the famous relic of the city's patron saint, San Gennaro.
Neapolitan Pizza Dinner
Enjoy an authentic Neapolitan pizza dinner.
Naples is the birthplace of pizza, and you can't leave without trying a traditional Margherita.
Pompeii & Vesuvius
Train to Pompeii
Take the Circumvesuviana train from Napoli Porta Nolana or Napoli Garibaldi station to Pompeii Scavi - Villa dei Misteri, which is right by the archaeological site.
The Circumvesuviana train is a local commuter train. It can be crowded, but it's cheap and direct. Buy tickets at the station.
Explore Pompeii Ruins
Spend several hours exploring the vast archaeological site of Pompeii, a city frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. See ancient streets, homes, and public buildings.
The site is very large; wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially in July. Consider hiring a guide or getting an audio guide for deeper insight.
Mount Vesuvius Hike
Take a bus from Pompeii Scavi to the base of Mount Vesuvius, then hike up to the crater for panoramic views of the Bay of Naples and the ruins below.
This is an optional activity if you have enough energy.
The hike to the crater is moderate. Wear sturdy shoes and bring a jacket as it can be windy. Check bus schedules for return.
Naples Street Food
After returning to Naples, grab some local street food for dinner.
Options include fried pizza (pizza fritta), arancini, or sfogliatella.
Naples Culture & Waterfront
Archaeological Museum
Visit the National Archaeological Museum of Naples, which houses an extensive collection of Roman artifacts, many excavated from Pompeii and Herculaneum.
Take the Metro Line 1 to Museo station, which is directly beneath the museum.
Lunch on Via Toledo
Find a local eatery or grab a quick bite on Via Toledo, one of Naples' main shopping streets.
Castel dell'Ovo
Walk towards the waterfront and visit Castel dell'Ovo, the oldest standing fortification in Naples.
Enjoy the views of the bay and Mount Vesuvius.
Entrance is free. It's a pleasant walk along the Lungomare (promenade) to get there.
Stroll the Lungomare
Enjoy a leisurely walk along Naples' picturesque Lungomare Caracciolo, a pedestrian promenade offering stunning views of the sea, Capri, and Vesuvius.
Capri Island Day Trip
Ferry to Capri
Take an early morning ferry or hydrofoil from Molo Beverello or Calata di Massa in Naples to Marina Grande on Capri island.
Hydrofoils are faster but more expensive. Ferries are cheaper and offer better views. Book tickets in advance, especially in high season.
Capri Precious Boat Tour
Embark on a private boat tour around Capri island to discover its natural beauty, including the White Grotto, Green Grotto, Faraglioni rocks, and more.
If the Blue Grotto is open, the boat will stop for an optional visit.
Booking required. The Blue Grotto can only be entered on small rowboats and often has long queues; entry is subject to sea conditions. Price for Blue Grotto entry is separate.
Anacapri & Monte Solaro
Take a local bus to Anacapri, the island's other main town.
From there, take the chairlift up Monte Solaro, Capri's highest point, for incredible 360-degree views.
Local buses are frequent and inexpensive. The chairlift ride is scenic and relaxing.
Explore Capri Town
Wander through the charming streets of Capri town, browse boutiques, enjoy gelato, and take photos at the famous Piazzetta.
Return to Naples
Catch a ferry or hydrofoil back to Naples after a full day of island exploration.
Be sure to check the last ferry times in advance to avoid being stranded. Tickets can be purchased at the port.
Travel Naples to Paris
High-Speed Train to Paris
Embark on a long but scenic journey from Naples to Paris by high-speed train.
This will involve at least one transfer, likely in Rome, Milan, or Turin, connecting to a TGV train to Paris.
This is a full day of travel. Book tickets well in advance, ideally as a single journey from Trenitalia or SNCF (or a reseller) for the best connections and prices. Bring snacks, water, and entertainment.
Check-in to Paris Hostel
Arrive at Paris Gare de Lyon and travel to your chosen hostel to check in and settle down after a long day of travel.
Public transport (Metro, RER) is efficient from Gare de Lyon to most areas in Paris. Have your hostel address and directions ready.
Late Dinner in Paris
Enjoy a well-deserved late dinner near your hostel or a casual Parisian bistro.
Travel from Naples to Paris & Evening Arrival
Ferry to Naples
Take an early morning ferry from Capri's Marina Grande back to Naples Molo Beverello.
Enjoy the scenic ride across the Bay of Naples.
Walk to Marina Grande from your accommodation in Capri. Upon arrival in Naples, you can take a local bus or walk to Napoli Centrale train station (approx. 20-30 min walk).
High-Speed Train to Paris
Embark on a full-day journey via high-speed train from Naples to Paris Gare de Lyon.
This will typically involve a transfer in a major Italian city like Milan or Turin, then connecting to a TGV train to Paris. Enjoy the changing European landscapes.
Pack snacks and drinks for the journey. Make sure to book your train tickets well in advance for the best prices and seat selection. Consider a direct Frecciarossa to Milan and then a TGV Inoui to Paris.
Check into Paris Hostel
Arrive at Paris Gare de Lyon, take the metro to your pre-booked hostel, and check in.
Settle into your room after a long day of travel.
Use the Paris Metro or RER from Gare de Lyon to reach your hostel. A single ticket costs EUR 2.15 for 1 person.
Switzerland Day Trip: Château de Chillon
Train to Geneva
Take an early morning TGV high-speed train from Paris Gare de Lyon to Geneva, Switzerland.
Enjoy the scenic journey through the French countryside.
Pack breakfast or grab something quick at the station. Book your train tickets well in advance for the best rates.
Train to Montreux & Château de Chillon
From Geneva, take a regional train along the stunning shores of Lake Geneva to Montreux.
From Montreux, it's a short bus ride or a picturesque walk to Château de Chillon.
The train from Geneva to Montreux offers beautiful lake views. From Montreux train station, take bus #201 towards Villeneuve, stopping at 'Veytaux, Château de Chillon'.
Explore Château de Chillon
Discover the iconic medieval Château de Chillon, beautifully situated on Lake Geneva.
Explore its courtyards, great halls, chapels, and dungeons, immersing yourself in centuries of history.
Audio guides are available and highly recommended. Wear comfortable shoes as there's a lot of walking and stairs.
Return to Paris
Begin your return journey from Château de Chillon, reversing your morning travel route back to Paris Gare de Lyon.
Enjoy the evening scenery on the train.
Ensure you have your return train tickets booked in advance.
Dinner in Latin Quarter
Upon returning to Paris, head to the vibrant Latin Quarter for a relaxed dinner.
Explore the charming streets and enjoy a classic French meal.
Take the Metro from Gare de Lyon to a station like 'Cluny - La Sorbonne' or 'Saint-Michel' (approx. 15-20 minutes).
Paris Landmarks & Departure Preparations
Eiffel Tower Photos
Start your day with an iconic visit to the Eiffel Tower.
Take memorable photos from the Trocadéro Gardens or Champ de Mars. Enjoy the views without needing to ascend.
The area can get crowded, especially on a Sunday morning. Arriving early is advisable.
Take the Metro to Trocadéro (Lines 6, 9) or Bir-Hakeim (Line 6). Walk around the area.
Arc de Triomphe & Champs-Élysées
Walk from the Eiffel Tower area to the Arc de Triomphe, a symbol of French national pride.
Admire the monument and then stroll along a section of the famous Avenue des Champs-Élysées.
You can climb to the top of the Arc de Triomphe for panoramic views of Paris (booking required, entry fee applies, approx. EUR 13 for 1 person).
From the Eiffel Tower, you can take Metro Line 9 from Trocadéro to Charles de Gaulle – Étoile, or enjoy a longer walk (approx. 30-40 minutes) up the Champs de Mars and across Pont d'Iéna.
Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur
Travel to the charming artistic district of Montmartre.
Wander through its cobbled streets, soak in the bohemian atmosphere, visit the Place du Tertre where artists paint, and ascend to the majestic Sacré-Cœur Basilica for breathtaking city views.
Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas. The views from Sacré-Cœur are stunning, especially on a clear day.
Take the Metro to 'Abbesses' (Line 12) or 'Anvers' (Line 2). From Anvers, you can walk or take the Funicular up to Sacré-Cœur (uses regular metro tickets).
Farewell Parisian Lunch
Enjoy a final French meal at a cozy bistro in Montmartre or near your hostel.
Savor classic dishes and reflect on your European adventure.
Departure Preparations
Return to your hostel, collect your luggage, and make your way to Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) for your evening flight to Montreal, Canada.
Confirm your flight details, check-in requirements, and baggage allowance. Arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before an international flight.
The RER B train is the most efficient and economical way to get to CDG from central Paris (approx. 30-40 minutes, EUR 11.40 for 1 person). Ensure you allow ample time for travel and airport procedures.
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